December 24th. 2025

The joy of being able to celebrate Christmas at home was, unfortunately, short-lived.

After reviewing the pictures taken during the most recent dressing change, Professor Krause contacted me this morning. His assessment was clear: in order to prevent any further spread of infection, a return to hospital is necessary. Tomorrow, on 25 December, the scar will need to be reopened, thoroughly irrigated and cleaned, and then sutured again. The procedure will, of course, be performed under anaesthesia. A hospital stay of three to five days is planned. A rather unconventional way, one might say, of extending the Christmas spirit, this time in a clinical setting.

Needless to say, morale has taken a noticeable dip. Nevertheless, the priority remains clear: to address the issue decisively at its source, so that this chapter can finally be brought to a close.

This afternoon, the hospital contacted me: arrival is scheduled for tomorrow morning at precisely 7:00 a.m., with the procedure planned for 9:00 a.m. The framework is set, the process well oiled.

Shortly afterwards, the anaesthetist got in touch as well. He outlined the available options: a spinal anaesthetic, supplemented, if I so wish, by light sedation. The procedure itself should be brief, no more than thirty minutes.

The decision was quick and without hesitation. To be honest, watching and listening to the surgical team at work, live and in detail, is not among my current ambitions. Sedation will therefore be most welcome.

And so begins a new chapter in this medical journey: heading towards operation number nine. Yes, already. At this point, one could almost speak of loyalty.